MMA Gear Checklist: What You Need Before Your First Class
- Indian Combat Sports Academy (ICSA)
- Oct 28
- 3 min read
Starting your MMA journey can be both exciting and intimidating. Walking into your first class unprepared is a common mistake for beginners but one that's easily avoided. Having the right gear is essential not just for performance, but for safety, hygiene, and making a good first impression. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete MMA gear checklist so you know exactly what to bring to your first session.
Why the Right Gear Matters in MMA Training
Mixed Martial Arts involves intense physical contact striking, grappling, clinching, and more. Without the right equipment, you're not just risking poor performance you're risking injury.
Proper gear ensures:
Injury prevention (for you and your training partner)
Better hygiene in a shared gym environment
Confidence and comfort, especially if you’re new
Investing in the right gear from day one shows commitment and helps you train smarter, not harder.
MMA Gloves – Your First Line of Protection
There are two main types of gloves you’ll encounter:
Training/Sparring Gloves (14–16 oz): Used for pad work, partner drills, and sparring. These offer more padding and wrist support.
MMA Gloves (4–7 oz): Lighter, open-fingered gloves used for grappling and realistic MMA simulations.
Hand Wraps – Essential for Wrist and Knuckle Support
Even the best gloves won’t protect you fully without hand wraps underneath. These help:
Stabilize the wrists and joints
Protect the knuckles
Extend the life of your gloves by absorbing sweat
Choose 180-inch wraps for full coverage and wash them regularly. They’re affordable, easy to pack, and a non-negotiable part of your gear bag.
Mouthguard – Protecting Your Teeth and Jaw
Even if you're not sparring heavily on day one, having a mouthguard is essential. Accidental elbows, knees, or even a sudden impact during drills can do real damage.
Opt for a boil-and-bite mouthguard that molds to your teeth. Higher-end custom guards offer better fit and protection but aren’t necessary right away.
Shin Guards – For Muay Thai and Sparring Sessions
If your MMA class includes kickboxing or Muay Thai drills, shin guards are a must. Beginners, in particular, should wear guards to:
Avoid painful shin clashes
Protect your training partners
Build confidence while practicing kicks
Look for dense foam padding, elastic straps, and a secure fit that stays in place during movement.
Rash Guard or Compression Shirt – Comfort and Hygiene
A rash guard isn't just for style, it serves multiple important functions:
Wicks sweat and keeps you dry
Prevents mat burns and skin infections
Adds slight compression to reduce muscle fatigue
You’ll thank yourself for not wearing a cotton t-shirt that gets soaked and heavy mid-session. Rash guards are ideal for both striking and grappling days.
MMA Shorts or Grappling Shorts – Mobility and Safety
Regular gym shorts often have zippers, pockets, or loose fabric all of which can be dangerous during grappling or drills.
Choose MMA shorts that offer:
4-way stretch material
No metal or hard components
A secure waistband that stays put
Some classes may allow spats or compression leggings, especially for grappling-focused days.
Optional But Useful Gear
Here are a few extras that aren’t mandatory for your first class, but are great to have as you get more serious:
Headgear: Required for full-contact sparring
Groin protector: Strongly recommended, even for non-sparring classes
MMA gear bag: To keep all your items organized
Water bottle: Hydration is crucial
Towel & flip-flops: For hygiene in shared locker rooms and showers
What Not to Wear or Bring to an MMA Class
Avoid items that can cause injury or disrupt training:
Jewelry (rings, necklaces, piercings)
Sneakers or regular gym shoes (MMA is usually barefoot)
Baggy clothes or jeans
Strong perfume or cologne
Valuables – lockers may not always be secure
Keep it simple, clean, and practical.
Final Tips Before Your First MMA Session
A few final reminders to make your first class a smooth experience:
Trim your nails (hands and feet) to avoid cuts or scratches
Arrive 10–15 minutes early to meet your coach and get familiar with the gym
Listen and observe, MMA has a lot of techniques, but take it one step at a time
Stay hydrated and don’t train on a full stomach
Respect gym etiquette and training partners
Ready to train? With this checklist in hand, you’re prepared to walk into your first MMA class like a pro, even if you’re a beginner. Gear up, stay humble, and enjoy the process of becoming stronger every session.